Training the right people for the job: How Greenworkx identifies the most effective Energy Advisors

As the UK accelerates towards net zero, the demand for skilled Energy Advisors has never been higher. These professionals help households improve energy efficiency, reduce bills, and tackle fuel poverty. But with many people entering from other sectors, identifying who will thrive takes more than a CV.

At Greenworkx, we’ve developed a streamlined, scalable screening process that looks beyond traditional qualifications. Our Energy Advisor Academy attracts new entrants from diverse backgrounds, from customer service and construction to social care and education. The key is understanding how these transferable skills translate into success.

Looking beyond the CV

A CV alone can’t capture the potential of someone changing careers. Our structured written application collects rich behavioural and scenario-based data to reveal each candidate’s resilience, motivation, and problem-solving approach. These insights show who has the traits to succeed in the Academy and as an Energy Advisor.

We’ve learned that applicants who can accurately describe the full responsibilities of an Energy Advisor, demonstrate strong numeracy and problem-solving skills, and show independence and purpose are much more likely to excel.

What the data reveals

Over the last two years, we’ve screened around 1,500 applications and we’re constantly analysing our rich candidate data to understand which traits to look for.

Over time, we’ve refined and tested our screening questions, continuously improving how we identify the most effective candidates. The results speak for themselves: our most recent analysis produced an R-squared value of 24%, meaning our screening data can explain a quarter of the difference between successful and unsuccessful applicants. For behavioural screening, that’s a strong validation that we’re collecting the right data and using it effectively.

From insight to impact

This data-driven approach powers the success of our Energy Advisor Academy, now expanded into Scotland following proven results across England and Wales. By combining behavioural insight with technical training, we prepare new entrants to hit the ground running.

For employers, this translates into a trusted pool of motivated, competent candidates ready to make an immediate impact. Through the free Energy Advisor Portal, organisations can browse over 100 (and growing) Energy Advisor candidates who are prepared to succeed from day one, reducing recruitment risk and accelerating the delivery of energy efficiency improvements across the UK.

What it’s all for

Our Energy Advisor Academy is one of the ways we’re building the skilled domestic energy efficiency and retrofit workforce to power the energy transition.

By looking beyond the CV and focusing on the traits that truly matter, we’re helping people from all backgrounds build meaningful green careers, and helping employers access talent that’s ready to make a difference from day one.

Get in touch to learn more about how we’re scaling the Energy Advisor Academy or to discuss future academy opportunities for other roles.